This blog goes out to all of you who are stressed out at the idea of being more productive. Let me ask you some questions. What is productivity to you? If you answered, “get more done” then you probably need to read this. If you’re the one telling yourself that best way to be productive is to never leave your desk until you’ve accomplished all that you need to, then I think it’s time for you to reevaluate your definition of productivity.

The idea behind productivity should be more than just getting more tasks done in a certain amount of time. It should be about achieving more satisfaction in your work! Yes, if you get more done, the more satisfied you’ll be but if that’s all that you’re worried about, you’ll probably get stuck in an endless cycle of ‘do more.’ You’ll never be satisfied. Productivity isn’t about the work. It’s about you getting your time and your life back. Once you understand that, your whole view will change.

Here are a few things you can do to redefine how you work.

Rethink

Take some time to really think about what you want out of the work that you do. Establish your goals in the work place and out of the work place. Your life shouldn’t be separated out into chunks. Figure out what you want and be at peace with your decision. Schedule out your time appropriately and don’t forget to leave room for some fun stuff!

Routine

Set a routine for yourself. Whether it’s a morning routine, or an evening routine, or both, it’s important to have consistency in your life. Your body and mind will become accustomed to this routine and it will become easier to focus on the tasks at hand. You will likely spend less of your precious time doing so-so work as you get into your groove.

Relax

Remember to relax. If you’re getting overwhelmed, focus on one thing at a time. If you’re stuck and you need a breakthrough idea, you don’t have to chain yourself to your desk until you figure it out. Have you ever noticed that you tend to get awesome ideas in the shower? (I have.) It’s because that is one place where your brain isn’t cluttered. All of a sudden, it’s free to actually do what it does best. Think freely. Relaxation can actually be more productive than you think. So don’t shy away from it.